Reviewing books with disabled characters can feel daunting if you're unfamiliar with the community. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with this (incomplete, but still fabulous) guide.

Here’s the deal:
➡️ You don’t have to be perfect to write a thoughtful review.
➡️ You do have to avoid harmful tropes, respect lived experiences, and remember no two disabled people are the same (we’re not monoliths).
➡️ Yes, we’re still cool with you commenting on representation even if you’re not disabled—just do your homework!

Things to Consider

Disability is diverse

• No two disabled people experience their disability in the same way
• Authentic representation celebrates this diversity
• Avoid assuming one character can "represent all”
• Access to medications, medical care, and support systems differs globally
• Cultural attitudes toward disability impact how characters navigate their world
• Avoid defaulting to U.S.-centric experiences and language—research the setting and its unique challenges and terminology

Is the Representation Authentic?

Understand the context in which this book has been written.

• Is the author #OwnVoices?
• Is the author disabled?
• Where is the author located?
• Have they researched and used expert and sensitivity readers?
• Does the book feel respectful?
• Does the story avoid harmful stereotypes? Or, if harmful stereotypes are used, in what context is this used?
• Are the characters multidimensional and not defined solely by their disability?
• What is the disability community saying about the book?

Watch for problematic tropes

• Does the character exist only to suffer, be fixed, or motivate non-disabled people?
• Is there overly dramatic, pitying inner monologues?
• Does the character experience limitations, and are these addressed sufficiently? Or does the character experience little to no barriers despite having a disability?
• Look for agency - does the character make their own choices and influence the story?
• Does the dialogue sound natural and informed by their lived experience?
• Are barriers and ableism addressed?

Consider the intersections of identity

• Disability doesn’t exist in isolation so how does the character’s race, age, gender, sexuality, location, background, class, etc shape their experiences with disability?
• Does the story reflect these intersections authentically avoiding stereotypes?
• Does the character’s identity change and evolve?
• How do the characters who surround the disabled character reflect intersectionality and diversity, and contribute meaningfully to the narrative?

How do I start writing my review?

• Use person-first language (e.g., "character with a disability") unless the author used identity-first language (e.g. "disabled character")
• Consider preferred language i.e. Autistic vs person with autism
• Avoid defining people solely by their disability
• Be mindful of tone—avoid patronizing or pitying language
• Don’t frame the story as “overcoming their disability” or "inspirational" simply because the character is living their life
• Respect disabled characters as full, complex individuals
• Focus on the achievements of the disabled characters, rather than using language like “despite their disability”
• Mimic terminology used in the book, don’t default to your preferred words unless the disabled community is saying otherwise. Your language could be offensive, outdated or carry limiting negative connotations without you knowing.

I'm still scared I'll F*ck up!

While this information may seem daunting if it's new to you, the most important thing to remember is to simply focus on the person (or in this instance the characters), rather than the disability.

Don't be so afraid of saying the wrong thing that you don't say anything at all.

Relax, be willing to communicate, listen and learn. There's a wealth of information available out there, go check it out!

Language is constantly evolving, and it’s important to remember that while something may be socially acceptable, it could still be highly damaging to individuals.

Better practice will always be to use language that is consistent with what the community says is appropriate.

Now go forth and review!